To whom it may concern, For the entirety of America’s history, we have prided ourselves upon being the home of diversity. We open our arms to immigrants from any part of the world because that mixture of rich culture is one of the main reasons America is thriving socially to this day. An interesting aspect of being American is having a connection elsewhere. I feel I have a unique perspective on this topic that I will discuss briefly. Having ancestors that have lived in this country for decades before me, I feel disconnected from my rich culture outside of this open yet confined space of 50 states. I am constantly asked the question 'where do you come from”. This question is soon followed by a 'how don’t you know” after I reassure them of my ignorance. Is it a problem that I am from New York, where I live, or New Jersey, where I was born, or however else I am feeling that day? To me, I do feel there is a problem. I can never just step back from where I am standing and just think to myself, I come from here. Although America isn’t the worst place to live at the moment, it sure isn’t the place that you want to be associated with. Another problem I have with these questions are how awkward the conversation gets after I tell the person for all I know, my family has lived here. Being African-American, the expression on their face tells everything that they are thinking about. Although I don’t like to think about it, my ancestors most likely had to do with slavery. This dark time in American history makes me embarrassed to take ownership of the only home I know. Experiencing these things, help me understand that before anything, you must have a connection to your roots. This can be family, friends or whoever but as long as they give you a sense of belonging . My purpose of giving this connection is to help you understand that although I may be considered an American, I can’t go out and celebrate my heritage. Although I don’t want you to feel bad for me, you should feel grateful for such a strong connection to a foreign land. Although there are many problems you may face here or where you come from, just know you will always have something to hold onto. Being an immigrant should make you proud. Without you, this country wouldn’t be half of what it is. Just remember no matter what happens raise your flag, sing your song, but just don’t forget where you come from. No matter how much your voice may be silenced here, you will always be able to express yourself somewhere, no matter where it is. Marcel Harris '22 (BHSEC Queens)
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